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From Alice in Wonderland to Obama | NYFW

From Alice in Wonderland to Obama, pop culture and politics seem to play pivotal roles in shaping fashion statements for Fall 2013! While political dilemmas inevitably can’t render an enchanting fairytale– combining such unrelated cultural realms can create a style fantasy worth gracing the pages of Vogue. It’s imperative to recap on ensembles from NYC, which exceed the bar of excellence! Last week, I was fortunate to attend a plethora of runway shows at NYFW, many were jammed with sartorial excitement, which enticed me to jump up and down and talk so fast to the point other people couldn’t understand me! Seriously! As I finish-off my runway highlights, I’m sharing a selection of collections that exceed my personal expectations. While you might be familiar with some of the following designers, I’m sure I’ll make you obsessed with a whole new roster of emerging fashion talent you wouldn’t bother reading about!

Jill Stuart: Combining sharply tailored sheen with beautifully flowing cocktail looks, the unaccessorized, simplistic beauty of the Fall 2013 Jill Stuart runway show turned heads at the Lincoln Center and I was fortunate to sit in the third row of the packed Theater. Intriguing halter cuts and oblong necklines added excitement to traditional silhouette cocktail dresses. With elements of fine fabrics, especially in metallic opulence and raffia romance, several of these numbers showcased an enchanting presence, while remaining extremely sexy with sheer layers and sectioning.

KaufmanFranco: I was enamored and at the edge of my seat, as Ken Kaufman and Isaac Franco unveiled their Fall 2013 collection, which encompassed an elegant simplicity with an edge. Infatuated with the concept of “good girl gone bad,” this collection was all about clashing opposite ends. For example, every smooth and silky fabric, was accompanied by an opposing sharp aesthetic. The Fall 2013 line is packed with leather, python, lavish furs and subtle rich trimmings. Some of my favorite pieces include a leather jacket with a fur mink coat, a plunging neckline mini-dress and chic leather skirts. In addition, I’m also coveting the stunning accessories like the draped fur scarfs, chunky leather boots and dramatic open-toe knee high boots.

Prabal Gurung: If I could sum up Gurung’s Fall 2013 collection, I’d dub it, “ARMY CHIC”. For Fall Gurung takes a utilitarian approach with predominantly army-green by utilizing this neutral hue in various sophisticated ways. From a top shaped like an inverted triangle paired with exaggerated peplum– to slim cargo pants and oodles of embellishments like intricate beading and feathers. The entire line is extremely commanding and enables any fashionista to prepare for combat. More pieces from the latest collection include a fatigue-colored fitted and flared skirt suit with a detailed brocade breastplate, smart navy coats, and an olive cocktail dress with flattering cut-outs. Nevertheless, this is definitely Gurung’s most confident collection with the largest scope on structured daywear.

Proenza Schouler: Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez took a much more minimalist, yet ladylike and relaxed route for Fall 2013. With a line of streamlined monochrome in a mix of ivory, black, gray, peach and pale mint shades for fall– in the form of rounded coats, shift dresses, ostrich feather skirts, black and white leather bottoms, laser cut separates and embroidered dresses– this dynamic duo curated a line of garments that are totally wearable and perfect for gracing the pages of Vogue.

Thom Browne: Thom Browne’s collection for Fall 2013 came right out of a whimsical fairytale like Alice in Wonderland, of course, without The Hatter and Queen of Hearts– stuck in a time warp. With proportions ballooning into theatrical dimensions with wide, structured shoulder-framing jackets over full, embellished skirts; Browne showcased his exceptional tailoring skills and craftsmanship. It’s imperative to acknowledge, following The First Lady sporting a custom coat designed by Browne– at the President’s second inauguration; it’s imperative Browne set himself up to exceed high expectations. Neverthless, it’s indisputable to argue, his Fall 2013 collection helped him rise to the occasion by showing his artistry with a wardrobe for the powerful woman, ready to bring her look to a whole new level.

Victoria Beckham: Prior to reviewing Victoria Beckham’s collection, I ought to confess I still have Spice Girls songs on my iPod and every time I think about Posh Spice, I envy her and how much I’d love to have David Beckham’s babies. But back to Victoria Beckham’s Fall 2013 collection; it’s definitely linear, tailored, and exquisitely coiffed. I’m particularly obsessed with the menswear-inspired, yet modern aesthetic. Beckham’s coats like her blue silk and wool trench, as well as a sleeveless yellow tie-waste coat — took center stage. Although this collection has a timeless air, there are a gamut of modular color and fabric blocked shift-dresses and skirts slit on a diagonal across the front, injecting a contemporary flair into this curation. Other pieces that enamored the crowd include a black fur front turtleneck sweater and a crisp white blouse with soft shawl collar tucked into a pencil skirt with graphic patent leather piping.

Vivienne Tam: From punk, pop culture, military and bar codes to Chairman Mao and President Obama; Vivienne Tam managed to successfully blend these unrelated elements into her Fall 2013 collection. Inspired by current events, Tam printed silk faille shifts and strapless gowns with scannable codes, plus caricatures of President Obama looking ‘cool’ in sunny’s. As an International Relations major this collection highly resonates with me, as it combines the spheres of fashion and politics– two sectors that rarely mix, except when it comes down to what the First Lady is wearing…. Another endeavor at giving politics a sophisticated twist included a one-shoulder dress plastered with a letter by Chairman Mao. At the end of the day, my favorite ensembles, emulated the punk movement, which is timely with the MET unveiling their annual fashion exhibit entitled, PUNK: Chaos to Couture.

Wes Gordon: Wes Gordon’s talent for experimenting with color and passion for designing beautifully tailored garments from high quality fabrics— are the cornerstone of all of his collections. His sharply feminine aesthetic and exquisite silhouettes, set Wes apart in NYC’s hyper-competitive environment. This man definitely knows his woman, she’s wealthy and enjoy flaunting her fortune too. With his greatest strengths undoubtedly being cut and color, his unexpected collections always exceed expectations and become essential for any fashionistas closet. Gordon’s Fall 2013 collection is no exception, with royal blue pindot satin paired with the orange brocade and purple velvet boots clashed with a white off-the-shoulder cocktail dress — Gordon’s motifs are definitely edgy and creative. However I’m drooling the most over Gordon’s suit jacket with a long goat hair mink coat, while some might find it creepy, I think it’s totally glamorous and represents one of the right ways to wear white.